Many reports suggest that Thomas Vermaelen is closing in on a summer move to West Ham United, but the Telegraph now reports that the former Arsenal captain is reluctant to sign a contract with the Olympic Stadium club as the player was informed that an approach from the Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is imminent.

Arsenal are definitely in the transfer market for a striker; however, manager Arsene Wenger is seemingly keen to bring down a defender, simultaneously. Youngsters such as Kostas Manolas and Jeison Murillo have been linked; however, Wenger’s penchant for signing former players who left on good terms may see the Emirates Stadium club land the wantaway Barcelona centre-back in the upcoming days.

The Belgian defender has fallen down the pecking order, with Barcelona signing newly capped French international Samuel Umtiti from Olympique Lyonnais. The Primeira Division club have put Vermaelen up on sale, and they have already received a bid from Roma, although they promptly rejected it thanks to the bid — rumoured to be in the region of £10m — failing to meet the Spanish club's valuation.

The Hammers, in the wake of a highly successful Premier League campaign that saw them finish seventh and their move to the new stadium, are looking to reinforce their squad in the hope of claiming their place amongst the Arsenals and Manchester Citys of the league. Their interest in Vermaelen, who has won two La Liga titles, two Copa del Reys, and one Champions League with the Catalans, underlines their desire, but Wenger boasts the funds and pedigree to nick the defender from them.

The 30-year-old made 150 appearances for Arsenal, winning the FA Cup in 2013/14. Known for his strong left foot, he was identified as a goal-scoring defender during his stint with the London club as he averaged one goal every ten appearances.